Out all the school districts in New York State, Granville High School’s own Dan Poucher was recently named Assistant Principal of the year.

High School Principal Jim Donnelly, along with various department heads and union and school leaders, signed a nomination to get Poucher in the spot because he believes he took on his job in a very meaningful way.

“He’s so dedicated to the children of Granville; he will do anything he can to help a child in Granville whether it be staying late, starting early, or anything else,” Donnelly said of Poucher.

Poucher had previously been a principal at the high school and has served in various other ways, such as being a teacher and a coach. Donnelly pointed out that on top of Poucher’s already-full schedule, he took on the role of athletic director when Steve Palmer was deployed for Hurricane Sandy.

“It’s a very rewarding and fulfilling position,” Poucher said of his job. “I like to encourage the best in students and help them reach their potential.”

He said he was deeply honored to receive the award, which is given annually by the School Administrators Association of New York (SAANYS.)The organization awards an administrator who “has distinguished herself/himself as an assistant principal,” according to its website.

The nominee, who must be an active assistant principal for at least two years, “sets the pace, character and quality of education for the children in the school, has made a commitment to parents and community and has shown evidence of outstanding contributions to the community and educational process.”

Donnelly agrees with these criteria, and he said Poucher makes himself available to serve wherever he can.

The two administrators stressed that the award reflects on the school as a whole.

“It’s a testimony to the entire school and staff whenever anyone gets an award,” Poucher said, “I look at it as an honor for Granville; we have an outstanding staff.”

He said he was surprised to receive the honor and does not want to take the credit for himself.

“I know how many men and women work very hard every day all over New York State,” he said.

In April, Poucher and his wife will be flown to Washington to receive his award. He will have the opportunity to network with winners from other states and will be eligible to be named the national assistant principal of the year. New York state officials will present Poucher with an award in May.